Associate People Business Partner

Company: Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Apply for the Associate People Business Partner
Location: Barnstaple
Job Description:

Are you passionate about HR and ready to make a meaningful impact in the Healthcare sector? Join us as an Associate People Business Partner at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

In this dynamic role, you’ll support the People Business Partner in driving strategic people initiatives across our Care Groups. You’ll work closely with senior management to develop workforce plans, provide expert HR advice, and champion best practices in people management.

This is a fantastic opportunity to influence key business decisions and contribute to a positive organisational culture, all while ensuring safe and efficient patient care.

More detail about the role:

As an Associate People Business Partner, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of the People Strategy across our Care Groups. You will provide high-quality, customer-focused HR advice on a wide range of complex and sensitive issues, including change management, strategic resourcing, workforce planning, employee experience etc. You will work closely with your service leads, using workforce data to support the development of strategies and initiatives to enable the delivery of a ‘great place to work’ for our staff at Royal Devon.

Your expertise will also be crucial in managing organisational changes, supporting consultations and workforce redesign initiatives. This includes inputting into Care Group organisational design, engaging and working in partnership with Staffside representatives to facilitate harmonious employee relations.

Furthermore, you will provide expert advice on on recruitment and retention processes. This may include supporting and attending career events, developing strategies for “hard to fill” posts, and working with the Marketing and Executive & Specialist recruitment teams to attract candidates.

To excel in this role, you should possess a relevant degree or equivalent qualification, with CIPD membership being preferred. A thorough understanding of current employment legislation and HR best practices is essential, along with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Experience in delivering HR advice in a large organisation, particularly within the NHS or public sector, is highly desirable. You should also have a proven ability to manage change and implement organisational strategies effectively.

Personal attributes such as a proactive, customer-focused approach, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to prioritise effectively are crucial for success in this role. You should be an enthusiastic team player, capable of motivating others, and committed to continuous personal development in line with the Trust’s values.

Other requirements for the role include the ability to travel independently across Trust sites, a full UK driving licence, and access to a vehicle with appropriate business insurance.

Working Pattern: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Interview Date: To be confirmed

For further information please contact: Claire Turner, People Business Partner, claire.turner51@nhs.net

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

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Posted: October 1st, 2026